Personal Emergency Response Systems

What is a personal emergency response system?

A Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) is an electronic device that lets you call for help in an emergency. A PERS is very helpful if you are disabled or an older person living alone. It is also called a Medical Emergency Response System.

How does a PERS Work?

Transmitters are light-weight, battery-powered devices that you activate by pressing 1 or 2 buttons. They can be worn on a chain around the neck or on a wrist band. They can also be carried on a belt or in a pocket. When you need emergency help (medical, fire, or police), you press the transmitter's help button. It sends a radio signal and dials one or more pre-selected emergency telephone numbers. Most systems can dial out even if the phone is in use or off the hook. Most PERS are programmed to automatically identify you to the emergency response center. The center will try to determine the nature of the emergency and who should be notified.

How can I get a PERS?

A PERS can be purchased, rented, or leased. In most states, neither Medicare nor Medicaid will pay for a PERS, nor will most insurance companies. The few insurance companies that do pay require a doctor's recommendation. Purchase prices normally range from $200 to $1,500. You also will have to pay an installation fee. Monthly monitoring may cost from $10 to $50.

To help you find a PERS that meets your needs:

Check out several systems before making a decision.
Find out if you can use the system with other response centers. For example, can you use the same system if you move?
Ask about the pricing, features, and servicing of each system you are considering.
Make sure the system is easy to use.
Test the system to make sure it works from every point in and around your home. Make sure nothing interferes with transmissions.
Ask to see the warranty and service contract.
Find out how to arrange for a replacement or repair if a malfunction occurs.
Read your purchase, rental, or lease agreement carefully before signing.

You should ask these questions about the response center:

Is the monitoring center available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?
What is the average response time?
What kind of training does the center staff receive?
How does the center test systems in your home? How often are tests conducted?

Before doing business with companies selling PERS, contact your local consumer protection agency, state Attorney General's Office, and Better Business Bureau. Ask if any complaints have been filed against the companies you are considering. You may want to get recommendations from friends, neighbors, or relatives who use emergency response systems. Choosing the best service and equipment for your particular situation can be difficult. However, if the right PERS is chosen, it can help older adults to stay safe and independent as well as increasing peace of mind for family and caregivers.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIA File AGI3040F.HTM Release 9.0/2006